My child has cancer
When your child is diagnosed with cancer, it propels you into a new world. Parents talk about switching to ‘survival mode’ and just trying to get through it. Whether you’re staying in the hospital or holding it together at home, it’s not easy. But the challenges you face each day are made easier with the right advice and support. That’s where we come in. This is your go-to place for everything you might need, no matter how long it’s been since this all began.
Jump straight to information
My child’s cancer and treatment
Information for parents and carers about their child's cancer and treatment.
Your health and wellbeing
Your child's cancer can take a toll on your wellbeing. Here's how to look after yourself.
Your family, friends and relationships
The people in your life can provide valuable support when your child has cancer. Here's how.
Money
Here, parents can find help with benefits, insurance and the extra costs of cancer.
School
Information for parents and carers about their child's school and education when they have cancer.
In the hospital
The care, facilities and support you can expect from your child's hospital or place of treatment.
Common challenges for parents
Get straight to what’s most important to you. Here are the most common issues from other parents.
Your specialist may ask if you would like your child to take part in a clinical trial. Being part of research can improve care for other children and young people who face cancer in the future. Many treatments that are available today have been developed and improved through such research. But if you don’t want to take part, it’s always your choice.
It’s normal to experience strong and frightening emotions. When they overwhelm you, it can be hard to deal with – especially when you’re trying to ‘keep it together’ and stay strong for those around you. Allowing these emotions in doesn’t make you a failure. It’s important to experience them. Even if it’s just so you can take a deep breath, and let them go again.
Disability Living Allowance is a benefit for under 16s, who have a serious illness like cancer, a mental health condition, or a disability. DLA helps with day to day living costs. It’s not means tested, which means it’s not based on your income or savings. It also won’t affect any other benefits you’re getting.
Organising travel insurance for a child or young person who’s been diagnosed with cancer can be challenging. But it is possible to find reasonably priced insurance with a bit of effort. Here are 10 things to consider before you start searching.
Guides for the people in your life
People will want to know how they can help you. Share these guides with them. It’ll give them the knowledge and support they need too.
For children, from children
“What do you do if you’re bored in hospital?”, “What was it like when you went back to school?”, “Did you feel scared when you heard the news?”
Tell us what you think
We’re doing some research into the impact we’re having, and would really like to hear from you! If you’ve got a Young Lives vs Cancer grant, stayed in one our of Homes from Home or used our online tools and information, and are happy to have a quick chat on the phone, then please fill in your details.
Someone from our agency, Rocket Science, will get in touch with you by email to arrange a convenient time to have a chat.
